News & Media

Regional Symposium: Next Generation Cocoa Research for West and Central Africa

June 5, 2014

NOTE: The Symposium has been postponed until mid 2015.

INTRODUCTION

The WCF African Cocoa Initiative (ACI), in conjunction with the African Cocoa Breeders Working Group (ACBWG), is organizing a one-time symposium in Ibadan, Nigeria on the next generation of cocoa research for West and Central Africa. The symposium takes place November 11-14, 2014.

The symposium will cover aspects on the recent innovations in cocoa improvement, share research experiences, identify research needs and develop national, regional and global alliances to unleash the potential of the crop.

It will also provide a platform for consultation and development of a regional strategy for improving the cocoa sector based on genetic enhancement; pest and diseases, and mitigation of risks of climate change; post-harvest handling and quality aspects; mechanization/labor-saving technologies; markets, institutions and policies; and value chain analysis.

The symposium will bring together nearly 300 researchers, academics, industry representatives and other stakeholders in the cocoa sector to discuss research priorities across both the public and private sector platforms going forward.

GOALS OF THE SYMPOSIUM

The overall goal of this symposium is to establish:

1. A regional strategy for next generation research needs for cocoa sustainability; 2. Increased investments for R4D needs; 3. Increased engagement of policy makers, institutions and governments in the region for strengthening R&D capacity and human resource development.

SYMPOSIUM SUPPORTERS

SYMPOSIUM THEMES

Genetic resources, breeding and genomics;

Post-harvest handling and quality (Bean–to-Bar);

Value-chain issues (public-private partnership platforms);

Climate change;

Mechanization/labor-saving technology;

Markets, institutions and policies

COMMITTEES

International: To be announced

National organizing committee: Executive Director CRIN as the Secretary, Honourable Minister of Agriculture as Chairman and Director General, IITA and others as members.

Technical advisory committee: Technical persons for each theme and private company representatives.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION

Abstract should include a title, list of authors, affiliations and a text description of 300 words maximum with 12 font size in Times New Roman. Further information will be provided in subsequent announcements.

Payment of registration fees is due by September 15, 2014. Late registration fees of USD 50 will apply for registrations from 16 August 2013 to spot registration during conference period. Cancellation will attract 40% levy to cover transaction costs; no refunds after 20 October 2014.

IMPORTANT DATES

Registration deadline – 15 September 2014

Abstract submission deadline – 15 September 2014

Symposium duration – 11 -14 November 2014

CONTACTS

For further information on the symposium, please contact the following: